Project moved back to September

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CLARINGTON -- If it does open this summer, it will be a late one for Bowmanville's new waterfront park.

Work on the Port Darlington East Beach park was expected to be completed this month, but now officials are expecting it to last into late August or possibly September.

"We're a little behind schedule," said Peter Windoff, manager of parks development. "It's largely due to the building of the washroom."

It's more complicated than just installing a washroom, says Mr. Windoff. The building will house a mechanical electrical room that will operate the park's new splash pad. He noted the foundation for the building is already finished but the building itself has to be prefabricated, built entirely off site delivered in parts. Delays with the contractor means those deliveries are now slated for July 28.

"That's the thing holding everything up," said Mr. Windoff, who added putting the building together is expected to take several weeks as well.

"It's not unexpected for construction to take longer than planned," he said.

Construction for the new park meant relocating East Beach Road north by approximately 30 metres for added greenspace, as well as work along the shoreline to prevent erosion into the lake. When completed the park will feature a playground, gazebo, splash pad, public washrooms, a network of walkways and parking for about 60 vehicles.

Regional Councillor Willie Woo said it’s "disappointing" the park will be opened later than planned. Despite expecting most of the work to have been completed in the spring of this year, Coun. Woo said he understands delays can happen.

"It would have been nice to have the park for the whole summer," said Coun. Woo. "That doesn't preclude people from using the park or beach area now."

He said while the new facilities might not be complete, the waterfront is still worth visiting for its "ambiance.

"At least it will be completed this year for the start of next year," said Coun. Woo.

Mr. Windoff is confident that the park will be ready before next year and predicated a September opening with all work completed.

"The grass will be down, the splash pad will be on, the trees will be in," said Mr. Windoff.